Multiplying Your Knowledge - Interview With Treehouse Member Neal Haffner

Work smarter is something we are always cracking the code on. Here’s a story of commercial real estate knowledge transforming into a luxury passion project (@bin_and_gather) that turns costs into profits, told by Kahala Treehouse member Neal Hafner.

With more than 15 years of experience helping clients build wealth through real estate, Neal learned how to mitigate risks and costs, allowing for his own multifamily property investments and the ability to offset tax burdens. He discovered a strategy to reallocate IRS-bound money into new investments by utilizing bonus depreciation that applies to multifamily, and short-term vacation rentals through cost segregation. Instead of giving those fees up in taxes, he put them to use.

Another way Neal learned to invest effectively is by optimizing his time and lowering risk by committing to invest in multifamily properties. Not only are the multifamily properties more scalable but with the ever-changing occupancies, the operation can withstand vacancies more resiliently, losing less money during transitions. This creates a more stable business that is also more efficient with his efforts while providing much needed housing.

In leveraging the benefits of his years of real estate knowledge, Neal was able to create something with his wife that also serves a deeper purpose with their family. As frequent Airbnb travelers, they cherish the many experiences local hospitality has to offer and are passionate about sharing that same experience with others. In Hawai‘i they manage a mid-term rental where they love hosting remote workers, neighboring island kamaʻāina, healthcare staff, and those visiting family. Most often, people passing through have a strong tie to Hawai‘i and it is meaningful for them to have a beautiful place for travelers to stay without relying on hotels. When done so respectfully, these mid-term rentals intend to empower the community with comfortable accommodations and other support like landscaping work, management, cleaning, marketing, and more. 

Fast-forward to now, Neal takes all of these elements to create his passion project of luxe vacation rentals in Southwest, Michigan, where he and his wife are both from. They find excitement in living more chapters by their favorite turquoise blue lake, Lake Michigan, along beach towns with boutique shops and incredible restaurants, surrounded by lush vineyards. With endless activities like boating, fishing, and even surfing, they are able to share these moments with their loved ones and those who are discovering their treasured places for the first time. Also being only an hour and a half from Chicago, 45 minutes from Grand Rapids, and 45 minutes from South Bend. Even in the winter season, there is so much beauty and fun in the snow. Keep updated with their progress by following Bin and Gather on Facebook and Instagram to follow their journey and when you can book your own getaway!

You too, can take what you know and transform it into something to call your own. Get creative, find purpose, and continue to grow.

Treehouse Coworking is at the center of entrepreneurialism in Hawai‘i. Our cowork space offers opportunity to connect and learn with other likeminded doers. Come be part of the community by pulling up at a desk or joining us for one of our regular events. #WorkBetter

Jackie Algas-Sasaki